The Democratic Socialists of America: How Socialism Went Mainstream in the US

Strategic Insights -

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is on the rise in New York City's 2021 municipal elections, with its members running for six city council seats and the group having a significant presence in the state legislature. The DSA's electoral success can be attributed to its ability to represent the economic and racial diversity of its communities and champion issues that matter to working-class, immigrant constituencies.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DSA was formed in 1972 as the Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee, which later merged with the New American Movement to form the Democratic Socialists of America.
  • The DSA's electoral strategies changed after 2016, partly due to the influx of new members and partly in frustration with mainstream Democratic candidates.
  • Since 2016, DSA-backed candidates have won district attorney races from Philadelphia to Travis County, Texas, and hold four seats in Congress.
  • Forty DSA members sit in 21 state legislatures.
  • The DSA's legislative proposals include rent control, free college, and reproductive rights, which are classic socialist issues updated for the 21st century.
  • The DSA tends to back candidates from marginalized groups who reflect the racial makeup of the neighborhoods they represent.
  • The DSA's growing political profile has caused tensions within the Democratic Party, with some party staffers quitting rather than work under the new leftist leadership.
  • The DSA has faced criticism for having a "race problem," with a largely white and male leadership despite running primarily candidates of color.

Statistics:

  • Over 90,000 dues-paying members, up from 6,000 in 2015 (The DSA claims)
  • The DSA's median age dropped from 68 in 2013 to 33 by 2017
  • DSA-backed candidates have won 5 district attorney races from Philadelphia to Travis County, Texas, and hold 4 seats in Congress
  • 40 DSA members sit in 21 state legislatures
  • The DSA holds 5 of Chicago's 50 city council seats
  • New York State Sen. Jabari Brisport was a teacher and tenant organizer before being elected in 2020
  • New York State Rep. Phara Souffrant Forrest was previously a tenant organizer and nurse

Sources:

  • The Conversation -- USA -- By Joshua Kluever, Ph.D. Candidate of 20th Century American History, Binghamton University, State University of New York
  • https://theconversation.com/how-socialism-stopped-being-a-dirty-word-for-some-voters-and-started-winning-elections-across-america-156572
  • Historical Graphica Collection/Heritage Images/Getty Images
  • Photo by Barbara Alper/Getty Images
  • Spencer Platt/Getty Images
  • The Nevada Independent and other local newspapers